Like many other states, Texas strives to make it as easy as possible to adopt a child. For example, the state’s home residency requirement is minimal (six months) and may be waived in some cases. Any individual may adopt a child in Texas. However, if you are married, your spouse must join your adoption efforts.
Adoption keeps children out of group homes while filling the empty arms and hearts of childless individuals. Unfortunately, adoption is rife with fraud, scams and schemes designed for one purpose only—to get your money.
What warning signs should you watch for when adopting?
Adoption fraud occurs in many ways and is perpetrated by both agencies and individuals. For example, a person may pose as a birth mother willing to let you adopt. They ask for money to help them out until birth, but they may not be pregnant or even a woman. Other signs of adoption fraud include:
- The agency or individual insists you pay huge amounts of money upfront.
- You receive adoption offers from other countries with financial requests or demands.
- The agency or individual cannot provide proof of a pregnancy or a child.
- The agency or individual refuses to speak with you or your legal counsel.
- You receive repeated requests for additional payments you have matched with a child or birth mother.
Take steps to ensure that you are dealing with legitimate adoption agencies and birth mothers. Usually, this involves working with reputable organizations and acquiring legal guidance to protect your rights. Learning more about Texas adoption procedures and laws can also protect Round Rock residents from fraud.
